Milestone for Canadian Hy2gen project: Impact study and timeline

Hy2gen Canada Inc. has reached a key milestone in its COURANT renewable ammonia project by submitting a project notice to Quebec’s Minister of the Environment, Fighting Against Climate Change, Wildlife and Parks. This submission marks the transition from the planning phase to the regulatory review process, which will include an environmental impact study to ensure the project aligns with safety and sustainability standards.

Advancing Renewable Ammonia Production

The COURANT project, awarded 307 MW of electricity in 2024, aims to produce 230,000 tonnes of renewable ammonia per year. The ammonia will be used to decarbonize the local mining industry through the production of ammonium nitrate, contributing to Canada’s broader climate objectives.

The construction phase is scheduled to begin in 2027, with production expected to commence in 2030. Once operational, the facility will serve as a model for future ammonia projects in the Americas and Nordic countries, with a vision to supply European industries with renewable ammonia.

Economic and Environmental Impact

Beyond its role in reducing industrial emissions, the COURANT project is expected to provide significant economic benefits to the Baie-Comeau region, where the plant will be located. The construction phase will generate up to 1,000 jobs, while ongoing operations will create approximately 300 permanent positions. Additionally, the project seeks to strengthen the regional industrial ecosystem by prioritizing local and provincial suppliers for goods and services.

Hy2gen has engaged extensively with regional authorities, industry experts, and community representatives since 2023 to ensure the project aligns with environmental and social priorities. The company has also collaborated with the First Nations community, Innus de Pessamit, throughout the planning process to foster partnerships that respect their values and priorities. To facilitate ongoing communication, Hy2gen plans to open an office in Baie-Comeau to engage with local stakeholders transparently.

CEO Commentary and Future Outlook

Hy2gen CEO Cyril Dufau-Sansot stated: “With the submission of the project notice to the Minister of the Environment, our COURANT project has taken a significant step toward realization. We have been welcomed with open arms and are committed to earning the trust we have received. This project not only reinforces our ability to develop similar ammonia projects in the Americas and Nordic countries but also positions us to supply Europe with renewable fuels. The growing demand for renewable ammonia, coupled with an efficient logistics network, enables cost-effective transportation to the EU.”

A Major Step in North American Renewable Ammonia Production

With 300 MW of electrolyzer capacity, the COURANT project will be one of the largest renewable ammonia production facilities in North America upon its completion in 2030. The project serves as a proof of concept for Hy2gen’s broader portfolio of ammonia production plants, which aim to support global decarbonization efforts by supplying renewable fuels to industrial sectors worldwide.

Source: Hy2gen, Photo: Fotolia